1. Hillclimb Highlights
The heart and soul of the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the legendary Hillclimb is an unmissable spectacle for any motorsport enthusiast. Each year, this iconic stretch of tarmac draws crowds from across the UK and beyond, eager to witness a dazzling parade of automotive history. From cutting-edge hypercars to cherished classics and even pioneering electric vehicles, the Hillclimb showcases some of the world’s fastest and rarest machines in full flight. The tension is palpable as drivers—ranging from celebrated F1 champions to fearless amateurs—take on the challenging 1.16-mile course, weaving between straw bales and under the watchful gaze of Goodwood House. Whether you’re there for the roaring engines or the sheer spectacle, catching a glimpse of these automotive legends as they charge up the hill is a quintessential part of the Goodwood experience—and a must-see attraction for first-timers and seasoned festival-goers alike.
Classic Car Concours
The Goodwood Festival of Speed is synonymous with excellence, but nowhere is this more apparent than at the Classic Car Concours. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Goodwood House, this elegant showcase brings together an unparalleled array of historic motors from across the decades. The manicured lawns become a living gallery of British motoring heritage, featuring marques that have shaped both the nation’s roads and its cultural identity. From stately Bentleys to race-bred Aston Martins, each vehicle tells a story of craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless design.
Celebrating British Motoring Icons
Visitors are treated to a close-up view of rare and lovingly restored classics, with many models making exclusive appearances that are seldom seen outside private collections. Judges and enthusiasts alike admire not only the mechanical perfection but also the design details—polished wood dashboards, hand-stitched leather seats, and gleaming chrome accents—all hallmarks of traditional British engineering.
Noteworthy Highlights from Recent Years
| Year | Featured Marque | Iconic Model | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Jaguar | E-Type Series 1 | Sleek aerodynamic silhouette |
| 2022 | Bentley | 4½ Litre “Blower” | Supercharged performance engine |
| 2021 | Aston Martin | DB5 | Famed James Bond car |
| 2020 | Rolls-Royce | Phantom III | Pre-war luxury refinement |
An Unmissable Experience for Enthusiasts and Newcomers Alike
The Classic Car Concours is more than just a static display; it’s an immersive journey into Britain’s automotive past. Whether you’re a lifelong enthusiast or new to classic cars, the passion on display is infectious. Expect spirited conversations with owners, expert commentary from judges, and plenty of opportunities to discover what makes these vehicles true icons. For anyone attending the Goodwood Festival of Speed, this is an essential stop on your itinerary—a celebration of style, history, and British engineering prowess at its finest.
3. Future Lab Pavilion
The Future Lab Pavilion stands as a testament to the Goodwood Festival of Speed’s commitment to championing the next wave of automotive innovation. This immersive hub is dedicated to exploring cutting-edge technology, offering festival-goers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand how the world of motoring is evolving. Whether you’re an industry insider or simply passionate about the future of transport, the pavilion’s dynamic mix of exhibits and interactive experiences promises something for everyone.
Sustainable Transport Takes Centre Stage
With sustainability now at the heart of both consumer demand and regulatory change across the UK, the Future Lab Pavilion showcases some of the most exciting advancements in green mobility. Expect to see electric vehicles from both established marques and pioneering startups, hydrogen-powered prototypes, and breakthrough developments in battery technology. These innovations are not just concepts—they represent tangible steps towards a cleaner, greener motoring future.
Experience the Latest in Simulators
No visit would be complete without trying out one of the state-of-the-art driving simulators on display. Offering ultra-realistic experiences, these simulators allow visitors to test their skills behind the wheel of tomorrow’s cars—often before they even hit British roads. It’s a thrilling way to engage with the technology that will soon redefine everyday driving.
Shaping Tomorrow’s Mobility
The Future Lab Pavilion isn’t solely about vehicles; it delves into smart infrastructure, autonomous technologies, and even urban air mobility solutions set to revolutionise how Britons travel. Industry experts are on hand throughout the weekend, providing insights into everything from AI-driven traffic management to connected car systems, making this pavilion a must-see for anyone eager to stay ahead of the curve in mobility trends.
4. Supercar Paddock
If you’re a true automotive enthusiast, the Supercar Paddock at the Goodwood Festival of Speed is an absolute must-see. This section is dedicated to showcasing the world’s latest and greatest high-performance supercars and hypercars—machines that rarely grace Britain’s roads outside of this unique event. Here, visitors are treated to an up-close encounter with some of the most exotic metal on four wheels, from iconic marques to emerging disruptors in the supercar space.
What Makes the Supercar Paddock Special?
The Supercar Paddock isn’t just about static displays; it’s a living, breathing celebration of cutting-edge engineering and design. You can chat with representatives from leading manufacturers, see vehicles being prepped for their runs up the hill, and even witness exclusive UK debuts of models that make headlines worldwide. The paddock buzzes with anticipation as these dream machines fire up their engines and prepare to showcase their prowess on the renowned Hillclimb.
Supercars & Hypercars: What to Look For
| Brand | Model Highlights | Performance Figures |
|---|---|---|
| Aston Martin | Valkyrie | V12 Hybrid, 1,160hp |
| Lamborghini | Revuelto | V12 Plug-in Hybrid, 1,001hp |
| McLaren | 750S | V8 Twin-Turbo, 750hp |
| Porsche | 911 GT3 RS | 4.0L Flat-Six, 518hp |
| Ferrari | SF90 Stradale | V8 Plug-in Hybrid, 986hp |
| Bugatti | Mistral Roadster | W16 Quad-Turbo, 1,600hp |
| Pininfarina | Battista | All-electric, 1,900hp |
| Lotus | Eletre R (UK debut) | All-electric SUV, 905hp |
| Caterham | Project V (Concept) | All-electric coupé (specs TBA) |
| Tesla | Roadster (Prototype) | All-electric, sub-2s 0–60mph* |
A British Perspective: Why It Matters
The Supercar Paddock epitomises Britain’s passion for motoring excellence and innovation. Whether you’re a lifelong petrolhead or simply curious about future mobility trends, this attraction delivers both spectacle and insight. It’s not every day you get to inspect these rarefied machines at close quarters—so don’t miss your chance to experience automotive artistry at its finest during your visit to Goodwood.
5. Forest Rally Stage
If you’re after adrenaline and the raw spirit of motorsport, the Forest Rally Stage at the Goodwood Festival of Speed is an absolute must-see. Nestled in the wooded outskirts of the estate, this stage offers a unique taste of classic rally action—right in the heart of Sussex. Here, spectators are treated to a spectacle as rally legends and cutting-edge machines thunder through twisting gravel tracks, their engines echoing between the trees and sending plumes of dust skywards.
Unlike the more manicured Hillclimb, the Forest Rally Stage recreates the true challenge of rallying: unpredictable terrain, rapid-fire corners, and narrow paths lined with trees just inches from flying bodywork. It’s a rare opportunity to witness World Rally Championship icons, Group B monsters, and modern rally cars attack the course in all their sideways glory.
What really sets this attraction apart is its immersive atmosphere. Fans can get remarkably close to the action—close enough to feel the grit and hear every gear change as drivers wrestle their cars through hairpins and over jumps. There’s nothing quite like standing among fellow enthusiasts, watching legends like Ari Vatanen or Colin McRae’s legacy machines make light work of Goodwood’s woodland challenge.
For anyone passionate about motorsport history or simply seeking an unfiltered rush, the Forest Rally Stage promises unforgettable sights, sounds, and a palpable sense of excitement that defines the very best of British rallying culture.
6. Drivers’ Parade
One of the most eagerly anticipated highlights at the Goodwood Festival of Speed is undoubtedly the Drivers’ Parade. This unique event offers fans an unparalleled opportunity to celebrate the motorsport icons who have shaped the sport, as well as the current stars making their mark on the racing world. As legendary drivers and up-and-coming talents alike parade through the grounds, attendees can expect a true celebration of motoring excellence.
What sets the Drivers’ Parade apart is its intimate atmosphere. Unlike other high-profile events where barriers often separate fans from their heroes, Goodwood encourages interaction. Motorsport legends and active racers mingle freely with enthusiasts, pausing to sign memorabilia, pose for photos, and swap stories about their greatest moments on and off the track.
This rare chance to meet F1 champions, Le Mans winners, rally masters, and rising stars in such a relaxed setting is a testament to Goodwood’s commitment to celebrating motorsport heritage in a uniquely British way. It’s not just about recognising past glories—its about sharing passion and inspiration across generations.
The Drivers’ Parade embodies the spirit of camaraderie that makes the Festival of Speed so special. For anyone keen on collecting autographs or simply soaking up anecdotes straight from those who lived them, this is an unmissable experience. Be sure to arrive early—prime spots along the route fill quickly as fans gather in anticipation of brushing shoulders with living legends.
7. Best of British Food & Market Stalls
No visit to the Goodwood Festival of Speed is complete without indulging in the vibrant array of food and market stalls that showcase the very best of British gastronomy. The festival’s culinary scene is a celebration of local Sussex produce, artisanal craftsmanship, and traditional treats, making it an unmissable highlight for foodies and families alike. From hand-reared meats and freshly baked pies to creamy cheeses sourced from nearby dairies, the event brings together passionate producers who embody the spirit of Britain’s thriving food culture.
Local Sussex Flavours Take Centre Stage
Wander through the bustling market area and you’ll discover stalls brimming with regional specialities—think succulent Pulborough sausages, South Downs lamb burgers, and seasonal fruit preserves made just miles from the estate. Each vendor takes pride in their heritage, offering visitors a genuine taste of Sussex’s rich agricultural legacy. Whether you’re after a classic Cornish pasty or a contemporary twist on a ploughman’s lunch, there’s something here to satisfy every palate.
Quintessentially British Treats
The festival wouldn’t be complete without its line-up of quintessential British treats. Indulge in scones piled high with clotted cream and strawberry jam, sample artisan fudge in inventive flavours, or sip a refreshing cup of locally blended tea. For those seeking a more substantial bite, gourmet fish and chips or flame-grilled Aberdeen Angus steaks are perennial favourites—perfect for refuelling before heading back to the high-octane action.
An Artisanal Marketplace Experience
Beyond just food, the Goodwood market stalls offer an eclectic range of crafts and delicacies, from handmade chocolates to award-winning ales and ciders brewed right in Sussex. It’s the ideal spot to pick up unique souvenirs or gifts that reflect the character and charm of the English countryside. As you savour these delights amidst the festival atmosphere, you’ll experience first-hand why Goodwood’s food scene is as celebrated as its motorsport heritage—delivering an authentic slice of British culture at every turn.
